Inconel 625 vs Stainless Steel 316: Key Differences
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What is Inconel 625 alloy?
Inconel 625 is a nickel-based superalloy designed for exceptional corrosion resistance, high strength, and high-temperature performance. It contains nickel, chromium, molybdenum, and niobium, which provide superior resistance to oxidation, pitting, and stress-corrosion cracking.
What is Stainless Steel 316?
Stainless Steel 316, also known as EN 1.4401, is an austenitic stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance due to its chromium and molybdenum content. It is widely used in environments exposed to seawater, acids, and industrial chemicals, offering good weldability and moderate strength at elevated temperatures.
Inconel 625 vs Stainless Steel 316: Key Differences
Inconel 625 is superior to Stainless Steel 316 in high-temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and overall toughness, but it is significantly more expensive and harder to machine. Stainless Steel 316 is a cost-effective choice for general industrial, food processing, and medical applications, where the extreme performance of Inconel is not required.
Chemical Composition
| Element | Inconel 625 | Stainless Steel 316 |
|---|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | 58% min | 10–14% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 20–23% | 16–18% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 8–10% | 2–3% |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | 65–72% |
| Niobium (Nb) | 3.15–4.15% | Not present |
| Carbon (C) | ≤0.10% | ≤0.08% |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤0.50% | ≤2% |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤0.50% | ≤1% |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Inconel 625 | Stainless Steel 316 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 827–1,270 MPa | 515–700 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 414–828 MPa | 205 MPa |
| Elongation | 30–50% | 40% |
| Hardness | 210–250 HB | 150–200 HB |
| Density | 8.44 g/cm³ | 8.0 g/cm³ |
| Max Service Temp | 982°C | 870°C |
Inconel 625 vs. Stainless Steel 316: Corrosion Resistance
Inconel 625 alloy exhibits excellent resistance to pitting corrosion, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking in chloride environments. Compared to Inconel 625, stainless steel 316 has moderate resistance to chloride-induced pitting corrosion and is suitable for applications such as chemical storage tanks, pipelines, and marine hardware.
Inconel 625 vs. Stainless Steel 316: High-Temperature Performance Comparison
Inconel 625 significantly outperforms stainless steel 316 in high-temperature performance. Inconel 625 maintains its strength up to 1800°F (1000°C), while the actual limiting temperature for stainless steel 316 is typically around 1000°F (538°C). Above this temperature, its mechanical strength decreases, and it becomes more prone to scaling and oxidation.
Inconel 625 vs. Stainless Steel 316: Density
Inconel 625 has a higher density (8.44 g/cm³) than stainless steel 316 (8.0 g/cm³), and is therefore heavier.
What are the differences between Inconel X750 and SS 316?
Inconel X750 is a nickel-chromium-based superalloy with high-temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and creep resistance, suitable for demanding aerospace or jet engine applications. SS 316 is an austenitic stainless steel, much cheaper, suitable for general structural, medical, and food-grade applications, but its high-temperature strength is reduced.
If you have project needs for 316 stainless steel and 625 alloy, please feel free to place an order. GNEE has a large inventory of popular products for you to choose from. They can be processed into various practical product forms, including plates, coils, pipes, bars, and wires. For detailed chemical compositions and free samples, please contact our factory immediately. We offer competitive prices and excellent service.Email: info@gneestainless.com
